The Best Foundation for Summer Skin

We all know the struggle of wearing foundation on a hot, sticky summer day is so real. You want to even out your skin tone and cover problem spots (think: zits or dark circles), but the thought of swiping on thick foundation that most likely will clog your pores, make you look like an oil slick before noon, or even melt off the second you walk out the door is beyond annoying. After swiping on dozens of the latest formulas on the market, we found a new stick that solves all of your traditional foundation troubles.

Meet Tarte’s latest addition to their vegan, hypoallergenic makeup family Clay Stick Foundation ($39; tarte.com). Available in 12 shades (from fair beige to rich honey), this powder-to-liquid stick formula melts into skin like butter and is housed in a sleek tube that takes up little space in your makeup bag and can easily be applied on-the-go. Swipe it on and blend with your fingertips for medium coverage or layer it with a sponge or brush for full coverage. Another bonus: It doubles as a budge-proof concealer. And unlike many full coverage foundations that look heavy or mask-like, this offers a natural finish—like your skin but better.

So, sure, it sounds like a dream to wear, but we were curious about its skincare benefits because while we wear makeup to look good instantly, we also want it to do something good for our skin. Good news: For those who are oil-prone, the stick contains micro-encapsulated powders that—get this—burst on your skin when your body temperature goes up to keep you from looking shiny. It’s also packed with Amazonian clay that hydrates any dry spots while mattifying oily zones (bridge of the nose, we’re looking at you). It’s also got good-for-your-skin treats, including brightening vitamin C and antioxidant powerhouse vitamin E (and equally important, it doesn’t have any nasties like talc, parabens, sulfates, or gluten).